Hot on the heels of Breakin Convention’s fourth blockbuster year, Sadler’s Wells’ international festival of Hip Hop dance theatre presents The Pioneers from 10 December 2007 to 1 March 2008. Legendary artists Ken Swift, Suga Pop and Popin’ Pete will each lead intensive Hip Hop dance masterclass for experienced Hip Hop dancers. The Pioneers focuses on developing and refining the foundations of three key hip hop dance techniques – B Boying, Locking and Popping. Each artist will break down how they teach and pass on the foundations of these dance styles to future generations of hip hop dancers.

Through The Pioneers, Breakin’ Convention aims to equip dancers and teachers with the skills to pass on their knowledge to the wider UK community. Not many dance forms exist that can boast living pioneers, let alone ones who are still performing and teaching.

In May 2007 The Electric Boogaloos were part of the first ever National tour of Breakin’ Convention. Suga Pop and Popin’ Pete return to the UK for The Pioneers.

Participant Robbie Synge described working with Ken Swift as “one of the best weeks of my life”

Suga Pop and Popin’ Pete, both members of the legendary Electric Boogaloos and Breakin’ Convention regulars, have contributed to The Pioneers in 2008. Suga Pop successfully presented Locking from 28 Jan – 2 Feb 2008 and for this year’s finale, Popin’ Pete delivers Popping; his essential guide to the dance genre made famous by The Electric Boogaloos, from 25 Feb – 1 Mar 2008.

Day time opportunities for participation:
The Pioneers course provides expert and intensive tuition on the history and lineage and foundations of each style for professional hip hop dancers and teachers. It runs Monday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm at Sadler’s Wells. The fee for each course is £180. Participation is by application only.

Evening opportunities for participation:
The Pioneers is also an opportunity for dancers, choreographers and dance enthusiasts to take part in open workshops and attend a lecture series.